This past fall, there were seven total incidents discovered district-wide, he said. They included four instances of vandalism, mainly graffiti; zero incidents involving weapons; one incident of alcohol abuse; two instances of violence; and two incidents classified as "harassment, intimidation and bullying" (HIB).

Last year, there were about 33 total incidents reported in Ridgewood - versus 103 incidents about 12 years ago, most of which involved vandalism.

The 2013 numbers do not yet represent the full school year, but "if we keep going in this direction, I may not need to come in" and report, Pizzuto joked.

"That is an astonishing, astonishing accomplishment," said BOE Vice President Vince Loncto, remarking on the substance abuse figure.

But do these figures really represent better behavior? Or are fewer students being caught in school?

Pizzuto said some cases are unclear, but some show definite improvements.

District staff members are now required to report incidents they encounter, which are on the decline, he said. And bullying appears to be decreasing.

"The HIB numbers are dropping, my guess is, through education," Pizzuto said. "Hopefully this is the case, that less is happening.

"We provide a very supportive environment to address student needs," he noted. "Most of our discipline issues do not involve police ... The community in general works at supporting students instead of going out to get them."

School vandalism is definitely decreasing, according to the assistant principal.

The district believes this may be because visible cameras were installed several years ago. Based on district data, from 2002-2003 to 2003-2004, incidents of vandalism decreased from 71 to 14 incidents.

But the recent decrease in substance abuse numbers may be more of a technicality.

"We're actually holding less events that have these numbers attached to it at school," Pizzuto said. "It is positive to see the numbers go down ... but we have canceled a few dances, because students aren't as interested."

Many students are instead going to dances hosted in Van Neste Square by "The Backwoods." This community organization was created in 2011 to offer students new ways to enjoy the downtown, following a collaboration between RHS, business owners and residents.

Though the intent is positive, organizers know several students like to binge drink before the dance.

Organizers have advised parents in recent years to supervise students prior to the parties.

According to police, at a Backwoods dance this past summer, 13 students showed up visibly drunk and were not allowed inside, the same number as the previous year.

Aware of a need, the district is aiming to help more students this year.